Compilation and Assessment of the Variability of Nutrient Specifications for Commonly Used Australian Feed Ingredients

Abstract

Feed represents the primary cost of broiler production, thus the formulation of cost-effective diets that meet broiler nutritional requirements is critical. To ensure this objective is met, nutrient specifications of feed ingredients must be accurately determined. However, Australian broiler nutritionists have expressed concern, as many nutrient specification databases contain dated information or lack Australian specific data. Therefore, the aim of this project was to compile current Australian and global data into a database of nutrient specifications for commonly used feed ingredients within the Australian chicken-meat industry. This database also evaluated the variation within feed ingredients for both Australian and global nutrient specifications, and identified areas which require further study.